Reptiles | Snake | Turtles | Lizards | Frogs

My Roomate the "Reptile"

So many people have a dog, cat, hamster, or even a skunk as a pet, but many people overlook the possibility of sharing their company with a reptile. Retiles are very low maintenance compassionate creatures you just need to know how they show their affection.

Here are some helpful tips on how to pick the best reptile for your lifestyle.

First we need to understand what a reptile is. By definition a reptile is: any of a class (Reptilia) of air-breathing vertebrates that include the alligators and crocodiles, lizards, snakes, turtles, and extinct related forms (as dinosaurs and pterosaurs) and are characterized by a completely ossified skeleton with a single occipital condyle, a distinct quadrate bone usually immovably articulated with the skull, ribs attached to the sternum, and a body usually covered with scales or bony plates.

Now that we know the definition we can start with what is best reptile for you. A lot of people choose snakes as a pet or even turtles, these pets are very compatible for people for a low maintenance environment. Above all else: research your pet before you get it. Know what supplies you will need, food, and housing, before you get your reptilian friend. More importantly, you will be sure what to expect from a new pet, and what to look for to make sure your chosen pet is healthy. Also, you will be protected from misinformed or desperate sellers. Some of the misinformation include how large an animal will get, how much care is required, and incorrect diet and housing advice. This is not to say that there are not very knowledgeable and conscientious sellers out there. some could turn out to be the best resource and source of information. Just be sure you do some research beforehand to make sure you know what you are getting.

Reptiles are very fragile creatures that can live happily as long as their owners can cater to their specific needs. While some reptiles are great for beginners, other reptiles require a much more experienced owner. Rescue organizations dedicated to these species can offer an abundance of information when it comes to adopting the right reptile.

In addition, people should also be aware that reptiles carry salmonella. The C.D.C. attributes approximately 6% of all salmonella cases in the U.S. are due to reptiles or amphibians.

Be sure that if you are deciding to adopt any pet you are capable of tending to their needs. In a nut shell, if you can’t care for a plant, you can’t care for an animal.